Governor Scott Launches ReadingPals with Carol Barnett

ReadingPals is a three-year initiative focused on engaging, training and deploying volunteer
“reading pals” in 10 Florida regions to increase the number of students who are reading at
grade level by the end of the third grade. ReadingPals will focus on engaging students from
pre-kindergarten to third grade, specifically those in the lower-performing schools to
encourage and enhance early literacy.

“Today’s third graders are tomorrow’s doctors, engineers, teachers and innovators –
tomorrow’s job creators,” said Governor Rick Scott at a Wednesday press conference. “What
Carol and Barney Barnett are making possible will make such a difference in the future of
our state, and Ann and I look forward to working with them on this great initiative.”

“We are a blessed family, and feel obliged to make sure we give back a full measure to our
community and country, said Carol Barnett, President of Publix Super Markets Charities and
Vice Chair of The Children’s Movement. “There’s no greater investment we could make in the
future of Florida.”

Carol Barnett, President of Publix Super Markets Charities with Governor Scott and Ann
Scott, announcing a $3 million gift from Carol and Barney Barnett to create ReadingPals.